This 2007 remake of the 1972 hit opens up as a rumba and heads into a hard-hitting salsa groove. It’s an infectious track that will have you dancing in your seat — perfect for kicking off your journey.

On this classic tune about being left behind, Paul Simon’s warm delivery and the light strum of his acoustic guitar will comfort you in the quieter moments of your road trip (or while your travel companion is sleeping beside you).

This track employs synths, a killer bass line, and drums to give it an ’80s dance-party quality and a pulse you’ll feel in your heart. Crack the windows and sing along with the volume at full blast during a stretch of open road!

This song by the British singer has a cinematic quality with a beautiful orchestral arrangement and a heavy beat. You’ll feel empowered listening to this one, ideal for taking in breathtaking vistas along your route.

Singer Amelia Meath of Durham-based Sylvan Esso shines on this track; the emotion and intimacy of her vocals encourage introspection. Save this tune for the final leg of your day as the sun sets.

Oberstein is the associate director of Duke Performances. This spring he’s teaching a new course, “Introduction to Performing Arts Management & Entrepreneurship.” A Grammy and Latin Grammy-winning producer, he has a new project, the debut album of the Dafnis Prieto Big Band, Back to the Sunset, out this spring on Dafnison Music. Learn more: ericoberstein.com